BuildingPaver Sand Calculator

Paver Sand Calculator

Calculate exactly how much bedding sand and polymeric joint sand you need for your paver project—no guesswork, no wasted trips to the supply yard.

Project Dimensions

Ready to calculate

Enter your project dimensions

Polymeric Sand Coverage

30

sq ft/bag

4×8"

40

sq ft/bag

6×6"

45

sq ft/bag

6×9"

60

sq ft/bag

12×12"

75

sq ft/bag

16×16"

Coverage per 50-lb bag of polymeric sand with standard 1/8" joints

Expert Contributors

Why expert review matters

Every calculator is reviewed by certified professionals to ensure accuracy.David Chen's Master Mason, Licensed GC certification ensures professional-grade precision.

Pro Tips

  • Use only ASTM C-33 concrete sand for bedding—never mason sand or play sand, which lack the angular particles needed for proper compaction
  • Screed your bedding sand to exactly 1 inch compacted using PVC pipes as guides for a perfectly level setting bed
  • Order 10-15% extra sand to account for uneven subbase areas, edge losses, and spillage during screeding
  • Apply polymeric sand only to completely dry pavers—moisture activates polymers prematurely and creates hazy residue

Common Questions

What type of sand for bedding?

ASTM C-33 concrete sand (coarse) - never play sand

How deep should bedding sand be?

1" compacted or 1.5" uncompacted before pavers

Polymeric vs regular joint sand?

Polymeric hardens to prevent weeds and ant hills

How much sand per square foot?

About 0.31 cubic yards per 100 sq ft at 1" depth

How the Calculator Works

The calculator multiplies your project's length, width, and sand depth to determine total cubic footage, then converts to cubic yards and tons based on standard sand weight (1.35 tons per cubic yard). For joint sand, it calculates bags needed based on your paver size and coverage rates. Both calculations include your selected waste factor to ensure you have enough material on hand.

Formulas

Cubic Yards = Area × Depth ÷ 324

Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.35

Joint Sand Bags = Area ÷ Coverage Rate

Quick Reference

Bedding depth
1" compacted
Sand weight
1.35 tons/yd³
Coverage
~100 sq ft/yd³
Joint width
1/8" - 3/16"
Waste factor
10-15%